Tag: skincare

BWO Main

So last summer we promised you guys we’d be back to deliver the goods… the goods being the 411 about the different waters and oils that are filtering through to the beauty industry. Our once dewy skin has certainly felt the brunt of the winter months, and we can’t say over indulging in sugary festive treats has done wonders for the complexion either… Scroll, scroll, scroll.

GOING COCO

OGX

Coconut water burst onto the scene (and into our fridge) a couple of years ago, marketed as an all round miracle drink. It’s antioxidant properties work wonders from the inside out. Containing antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties, think hydration for both the hair and skin without ANY excess oil.

Increasing blood flow to the scalp, it fights against hair loss and breakage, conditioning locks naturally without chemicals, so if you’re looking to quench your thirsty hair, drench your dehydrated strands in the sweet nutrients of OGX’s Coconut Water Hydration Oil (£6.99) – this nutrient-rich oil infused with coconut water, electrolytes and a hint of coconut oil will leave your hair smelling as beaut as it will look.

Infused with Coconut Extract for a silky-smooth complexion, we love the Coconut Ultra Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water by Yes To (£7). Give it a little pump, apply, and you’ll be left with a distinctive healthy glow.

STOP & SMELL THE ROSE

DrO

Believe it or not, Rose water has actually been popular since ancient times, and a little clever rebranding & marketing has allowed this gentle antiseptic and anti-inflammatory water to start taking the beauty industry by storm. Skincare expert Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj describes it as an aid in removing oil and dirt accumulated in clogged pores, perfect for you busy city workers. We’re into the Dr Organic Rose Otto Skin Toner (£8.99), which blends bioactive natural and organic ingredients Rose Water, Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera to help leave your skin feeling purified and hydrated. Note: great Most rose waters come in pretty packaging too, a perfect little feature for your dressing table, as well as uplifting the senses!

AVOCADO ADDICTED

Avocado Illustration

We thought that couldn’t love this little green vegetable any more than we already do, but, we were mistaken. Most plant oils are extracted from the seed of the plant, but avocado oil is extracted directly from the flesh of the avocado, and its uniqueness doesn’t stop there. Usually we’d run a mile from ‘fats’ but these bad boys are very high in beneficial fats – music to our ears! The benefits of avocado oil are pretty much endless, with gum health, nutrient absorption, heart health and smoother skin all included. This Miaroma Avocado Oil (£7.59) is a natural and cold pressed vegetable oil, containing a neutral aroma that can be used as a base oil. Use it to create your own aroma recipe or simply apply it alone used as a face or body oil. It really is that simple!

Again, we don’t want to overload you with information and by the looks of things, natural beauty water and oil products are on the rise. Looks like that bathroom cabinet is going to get a little fuller…

NBB

The organic beauty industry is growing fast. Currently worth £61.8 million, the non-toxic ingredients are on the rise! In the same way that people are rethinking what they put IN to their bodies, they’re now questioning the products they use ON their bodies – leaning towards using products that are natural as well as mindful of not only the body, but the environment too.

Organic products = no GM, no toxic chemicals, no parabens, no synthetic fragrances, no nano particles, and certainly no animal testing. To celebrate this positive movement, here are some of our favourite organic beauty brands; scroll down to see the products you’ll be filling your bathroom cabinet up with in 2018.

JURLIQUE

Jurlique

Giving the big guns like Dermalogica a run for their ‘water mist’ money, is the Rosewater Balancing Mist (£18) by Australian brand, Jurlique. One of the natural brands bestsellers, the facial spritz combines antioxidant properties and rose water to leave you with perfectly hydrated, and fresh smelling skin. Super pretty bottle for your dressing table too! The brand grow and extract most of their ingredients at their own organic and biodynamic Jurlique Farm in the Adelaide Hills in South Australia, if that’s not dedication to the purity of skin care, then we don’t know what is!

MV ORGANIC SKINCARE

MV Organics

Want super smooth skin like Britain’s sweetheart, Emma Watson? Now’s your chance! Emma swears by another Aussie brand MV Organics Rose Soothing & Protective Moisturiser (£80). We quote “It’s extra hydrating and smells of roses, which is heaven”. Founder Sharon McGlinchey is a pioneer in the world of organic skin care, developing her collection to help those dealing with skin sensitivities such as eczema and rosacea. Her formulas encourage your skin to function at its optimum efficiency as a long-term anti-ageing investment… pretty pricey? Totally worth it. *Adds to online shopping basket*

MAULI RITUALS

Mauli

Mauli is a celebration of love, nature, tradition, a sacred red thread known as ‘mauli’ forms an integral part of India’s blessing rituals which is given to friends and family as a symbol of protection, connection and wellbeing. With that in mind, organic brand Mauli instruct that their intention is to ‘offer exquisite products created with your wellbeing in mind’. We’re suckers for anything that leaves you with that just-left-the-spa type of feeling, and Mauli’s Reawaken Hand & Body Lotion (£29) does just that. Infusing blood orange to firm the skin, and frankincense to boost immunity, it’s literally like wellbeing in a bottle.

100% PURE

100 Pure

We love discovering new beauty brands that are natural and organic, and we love it even more when they’re must-have’s of our fave celebs. Shailene Woodley supposedly swears by the makeup products from 100% Pure, which was founded in a Napa, California farmhouse in 2005 and now based in Silicon Valley. This brand focuses on providing healthy skincare, colour cosmetics and bath and body products that are free of all harmful toxins. Must have product? Their Fruit Pigmented Ultra Lengthening Mascara in Black Tea. It’s. Just. Everything.

RMS

Those are just a few of our ultimate brands to watch out for in 2018. We’ve included a few more brands that you have to try out. New Years resolutions made easy huh?

RMS Beauty (Miranda Kerr loves it – say no more), Axiology (great for vegan lippy!), Patyka (indulgent but worth it), Neal’s Yard (Londoners, we’re looking at you).

Main img xmas gift

It’s that time of year again, and we’re as excited for gift giving (and receiving!) as ever. If you’re struggling for gift ideas then we’re about to make your life a whole lot easier. Queue the obsessive online shopping.

For him

With work quietening down as the hectic festive season starts, people often struggle to switch off. Thankfully, Cowshed have got the answer. Their ‘Beauty Sleep Box’ is here to save the day, and help busy Londoners across the city relax and unwind. Including a lavender gentle cleanser, calming body butter, pillow mist sleep spray and an eye mask, we reckon you’ll be struggling to wake them up!

Where to buy: Cowshed, Beauty Sleep Box, £100

For her

Charlotte Tilbury is an excellent gift giver, and don’t we all know it. This year she’s released another Christmas collection, gracing us with The Gift Of Goddess Skin. Including a skincare set containing the Goddess Skin Clay Mask, Wonderglow primer, and the famous, celeb favourite Magic cream, this trio of skincare essentials is perfect for the colder months, giving a more radiant complexion almost instantly. Question: Can you buy yourself presents for Christmas?

Where to buy: Selfridges, The Gift Of Goddess Skin, £39

For everyone

Panicking about what to buy the parents for Christmas? Or even the siblings? If CD’s and perfumes wont suffice this year, we’ve got the answer to all of your worries. We’ll send two of our Sparista’s at the same time for a couples massage. Think Aroma Works oils, calming music and genuine luxury in the comfort of your own home… Why not book yourself a massage to say well done for choosing such a great gift (do you like what we did there?).

Where to buy: USPAAH, Couples Massage, £148

For everyone

This hand-poured, UK-made candle from the master of aromatherapy skin and body care is crafted from soy wax and is totally GM free. Cased in cream glass, and embellished with the luxury brand’s iconic logo in a gold that glows when the candle is lit, we didn’t think it was possible to get this excited over a candle. Frankincense and cardamom are infused to spread a scent that slows your heart rate, the ideal gift for someone that deserves a time out.

Where to buy: John Lewis, Aromatherapy Associates Inner Strength Candle, £38

For everyone

Its almost the end of the year, and we’re either desperate to relax and take things slowly… but who can resist the festivities, where mince pies, mulled wine and champagne become a regular part of the British diet. It wreaks havoc on the skin, which is why a facial is one of the best gifts you can give at Christmas (apart from a puppy). Designed to lift eyes and brows, sculpt cheeks and offer a bright and dewy complexion, our Age Reversal Facial will take a couple of years off of you (or at least December’s party eyes!).

Where to buy: USPAAH, Facial, from £68

For everyone

If you still can’t decide…let’s just say it: Gift cards could just be the best present for almost everyone on your list. Instead of stressing out about that one friend or family member that returns everything, opt for a USPAAH e-gift card. Simply head to our website, and order a virtual gift card, which will be sent directly to their inbox. With a choice of massage, facials, mani/pedi’s and plenty more beauty treatments, we’re pretty sure the gift of USPAAH is all you’ll need this Christmas.

Where to buy: USPAAH, Gift Card

Gentleman Blogger

It’s that time of year again – Movember. Whether you just fancy keeping your face a little warmer this Winter, OR you’re doing it for the greater cause of Movember, you may find it a little tricky to not look like an overgrown version of yourself! So if you’re new to the beard game or need some fresh products for your ‘tache/beard, we’ve selected our top beard grooming products.

Mr Natty Famous Beard Elixir

Mr Natty Elixir

Facial hair tends to draw moisture from the skin, which may leave you with dry flaky patches underneath and within your new friend (the Mo’ of course). Make sure you hydrate the area with regular moisturising and hydrating sessions, and not just with any old moisturiser. It’s time to bring in the big guns. Mr Natty’s Beard Elixir is combined with the finest of essential oils, and thankfully subtly scented too (trust us, neglected hair can develop a bit of an odour guys!).

Mr Natty – Beard Brush

Beard Brush

So now you have a nourished and clean beard, but you’re still looking a little Zach Galifianakis(Alan from The Hangover, say no more). We recommend using Mr Natty’s Beard Brush to help achieve smoothness, keeping all your random beard hairs in place. Brush in the direction of the hairs to keep it looking neat and wait for it, it can promote growth direction making beard growing simple and stress-free.

Moustache and Beard Wax

Beard Wax

You’re a few weeks into Movember and your facial hair’s actually looking quite impressive. Now, it’s time to perfect the moustache. Once you’ve tidied it up with mini scissors and a razor, it’s time to unleash the magic – moustache wax. Describing their product as ‘an extra firm moustache wax that puts the handle in your handlebar’, The Brighton Beard Companies Jevington Jigg’s Jasmin & Lemon Extra Firm Moustache Wax is perfect for creating mighty shapes with your mo’. Simply apply a small amount with your finger tips, otherwise you might end up looking a little Freddie Mercury circa 1981.

Bye Movember, Hello December

Bye Movember

Like they say, men and their gadgets… and this is going to be one set of tools you’ll not be able to live without after Movember is over. It’s all well and good turning to the bearded/’tache life, but if you look like you’ve been living in the outback for a month then its time to give yourself a little trim. Try BaByliss 6-In-1 Facial Grooming Kit which includes an array of tools ranging from a moustache trimmer to a nose and ear trimmer this kit has everything you need to keep looking sharp and stylish.

If your skins feeling a little dry and neglected after a month of Movember hair growth, a little TLC wouldn’t go a miss. We recommend USPAAH’s 1 hour Pure Skin Facial.

STA Main

Walk out the door, it’s sunny and your makeup sweats off, ten minutes later, the wind hits you hard in the face, almost as hard as a slapping scene that would take place in Eastenders. The joys of transitional, British weather everyone. Keep scrolling for a few makeup and skincare tips and tricks on how to sidestep that dreaded dry winter complexion and stay glowing all year round.

PREPARATION IS KEY

Glamglow

Starting with hydrated, moisturised skin is vital. Just like keeping a car oiled, think of your skin as the engine to your Ferrari! Invest in powerful skin masks such as Glamglow’s Thirstymud Hydrating Treatment (£39); containing the magic ingredient Glycerin it works to hydrate, moisturise, restore AND replenish the look of skin.

SCRUBA DUB DUB

Image Source
Image Source

Chapped lips are an inevitable part of colder weather, so treat them with care and exfoliate/ moisturise them with cheeky Australian brand, Frank Body’s Lip Scrub (£8.95) and Lip Balm (£6.95) for all year round kissable lips.  As for the face, go for gentle cleansing products such as much loved French beauty brand, Nuxe’s Micellar Cleansing Water with Rose Petals (£14). Formulated with rosewater to purify, refresh and replenish skin, it’s ideal for sensitive complexions.

PRIME TIME

BECCA Primer

Primer and face creams should be used to create an even canvas for all of the lovely makeup that we continue to buy (why shouldn’t we own 10 shades of blushers, peaches and pinks are totally different, right?). For oily skin, try Laura Mercier’s Foundation Primer (£30), a cult classic in many a beauty junkie’s makeup bag, working to blur the skins texture to create an airbrushed finish. Our favourite though, is Becca’s First Light Priming Filter (£32), which uses translucent, violet light to brighten & even out imperfections, and pear flower and Sodium Hyaluronate to capture moisture. We’re telling you, this stuff is like a wake up call for the skin.

LIGHT WEIGHT COVERAGE

YSL Foundation

When your skin changes as the terror of winter looms, makeup artist Suzy Gerstein suggests experimenting with different products, to see how your skin absorbs them throughout the day. Try working in a few drops of Nourish Organic’s Pure Hydrating Argan Face Serum Apricot + Rosehip (£16.53) to calm redness and lock in any natural moisture, before applying a light layer of foundation. For combination skin, Yves Saint Laurent’s Le Teint Touche Éclat Foundation (£33.50) which evolved from the brand’s amazing Touche Éclat Complexion Highlighter (£25.50) that provides even coverage and true luminosity.

SPOIL YOURSELF

Facial

If your complexion’s just not looking as revitalised as you’d like, we recommend treating yourself to a facial once a month, or every two months to really rejuvenate your skin (it would be rude not to, no?). Sit back, relax and let our Sparista’s work their magic on your skin, working to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish, leaving you with a well-hydrated complexion. Facials starting at £68 for 60 minutes, or £88 for 90 minutes.

Cleansing waters 2

Every few months, there’s a new beauty trend, and this year’s must haves have been micellar water and facial oils. We’re all over these products like a rash – but what are they in reality? Is Micellar water as magical and mysterious as it seems, should oil touch the likes of oily skin, or are they just more beauty gimmicks that won’t stand the test of time?

THE MYSTERY OF MICELLAR

Cleansing 2

Turns out Micellar water has been around for over a hundred years, yup, for real. Originally designed to help busy Parisians deal with the cities harsh H2O, the formula is made of micelles, which are tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water. Dermatologist and Simple skincare expert Dr. Debra Luftman notes “Micelles are attracted to dirt, grime, and oil, and they draw out impurities without drying out your skin”.

Instead of using your average ‘makeup remover’ which can leave behind harsh chemicals on your skin, micelles work to dissolve the leftover dirt and makeup on your skin, leaving behind a glowing, hydrated complexion to rival the likes of K-Mid.

Must haves:
We LOVE the Decléor Paris Aroma Cleanse Micellar Water (£23), and so do some of our Sparistas! Containing Rose Essential Oil, which protects the skin against aggressors, this solution will purify and settle even the most sensitive of skin. For a more affordable option and by far the most highly recommended by industry experts, is the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution (£10.80). The decongesting ingredients prevent stains caused by irritations which are often related to your every day cleansing – say your goodbye’s to face wipes!

OIL IT UP

Face Oil MK

Having first crept their way into our hair care regime (Argan oil we’re looking at you), face oils are now slowly planting their bottled selves down in to our skin care regime. Although they may sound a little scary, especially if you suffer with ‘oily skin’, they’re actually great for ALL skin types.

The more good oils you use, like rosehip, blue orchid and African marula oils, the less your face will produce its own bad oils which lead to spots, blemishes and a whole load of uninvited problems. Read below for our favourite skin heroes, designed to rebalance the skin, leaving it super-nourished and moisturised.

Must haves:
A very luxurious option is African Botanics’ ‘Cell Regenerating Oil’, made from pure Marula Oil. This nutrient rich ingredient extracted from the Marula tree in South Africa is full of essential fatty acids, along with Vitamins C and E,  which work to to build collagen and increase elasticity in the skin. It’s all about plant power in the beauty world, and we highly recommend this Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil by Clarins (£33). Ideal for the upcoming change in weather (RIP Summer 2017), this face oil (£80) made from pure plant extracts will nourish your skin.

We didn’t want to throw too much information at you all at once, so keep your eyes peeled in the next few weeks for more insights into the best beauty waters and oils… Glowing, hydrated skin and a very full bathroom cabinet – what more could you want?

Latest research shows that 80% of skin ageing is due to UV rays and pollution. Most of us consider ourselves pretty savvy when it comes to skincare, but do you know how much damage pollution is really doing to your complexion? With London persistently breaching safe limits not only is pollution impacting our health, it has an adverse effect on the skin too. Increased pigmentation, premature ageing, dehydration and inflammation are just a few signs that pollution is having a negative effect. Here’s our guide to pollution proofing your skin.

1. Eat foods rich in antioxidants

Free radicals present in pollution, break down the collagen in our skin thus preventing it from looking plump and radiant. Eating a diet high in anti-oxidant rich foods such as dark leafy vegetables, cranberries, blueberries, pecans and walnuts – can help nourish the skin from the inside out. For lacklustre skin, amp up your facial massage when applying your night cream. This stimulates lymph glands and expels toxins. Better yet, indulge in a blissful facial (yes, of course we’ve got just the one) and ask your therapist to add a vitamin C booster to counteract urban skin aggressors.

2. Avoid congestion areas and cleanse quickly

Pollution particles can be 20x smaller than the human pore and traffic pollution has emerged as the single most toxic element to the skin. Dodge it, by taking a “low pollution” route to work. Innovative apps such as City Air can help you plan your journey in the most pollution-free way possible. At the end of the day, limit damage by not allowing pollution particles to sit on the skin for any longer than necessary. Don’t wait until its time for bed, thoroughly cleanse skin as soon as you get in.

3. Use sunscreen all year long

You’re probably already using it when it’s sunny, but here’s another reason to slather sunscreen on whatever the weather: Pollution weakens the skin’s natural barrier increasing the likelihood of skin pigmentation. Our favourite product to “city-shield” your skin is Khiel’s Ultra Light Daily Defence, £35 and if you’re browsing for others, remember to look for SPF formulas that contain antioxidants which further boost the cream’s pollution-fighting powers.

Your Pollution Proof Skincare Routine

Here are our top pollution-busting products that literally breathe fresh air into skin – because let’s face it – it’s all about the glow!

  • Jump start the skin with a cleanser bursting with peptides and barrier boosting collagen such as Balance Me’s Collagen Boost Restore, £18.
  • Next, apply your serum of choice or try Skin Ceuticals Triple Lipid Restore, £123. It’s the ultimate in leaving skin feeling soothed and cosseted (Cosseted Meaning: care for and protect in an overindulgent way).
  • Finally top off with a high SPF day cream such as Khiel’s Ultra Light Daily Defence, £35. It’s oil free and suitable for even the most sensitive of skins.

Give your skin a healthy boost with one of our blissful at-home facials. Treatments start at £43 and our Sparistas only use premium brands such as Comfort Zone and NuSkin. They arrive with full expert kits and tailor the treatments to your skin type and condition.

Book a facial via the app, website or email concierge@uspaah.com